The Eukaryotic Cell

  1. Endoplasmic Reticulum – membranes that carry material through the cell and play a role in protein modification and lipid synthesis; has two parts: rough ER (contains ribosomes) and smooth ER (does not contain ribosomes)
  2. Nucleolus – stores genetic information; controls all cell activities
  3. Nucleus – houses the cell’s DNA in the form of chromatin and directs the synthesis of ribosomes and proteins.
  4. Ribosomes – the cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis.
  5. Cytoplasm – made up of organelles suspended in the gel-like cytosol, the cytoskeleton, and various chemicals; comprises the contents of a cell between the plasma membrane and the nuclear envelope 
  6. Mitochondria – breaks down sugar into energy for the cell
  7. Peroxisome – carry out oxidation reactions that break down fatty acids and amino acids.
  8. Golgi Apparatus – flattened membrane discs that package and sort proteins
  9. Plasma Membrane – made up of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that separates the internal contents of the cell from its surrounding environment.